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Congresswoman Hartzler encourages Fourth District youth to strive for the Congressional Award

Jan 18, 2013

Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler (MO-04) believes that exemplary achievement in America’s youth should be recognized and rewarded. As the new year begins, she is encouraging young people of Missouri’s Fourth Congressional District to strive for the Congressional Award that honors young people aged 14 to 23 with certificates and medals for their volunteer public service, personal development, physical activities, and exploration activities.

“Earning the Congressional Award is a fun and interesting way for young people to get more involved in their current extra activities and find new ways to serve in their communities,” said Hartzler. “This program encourages students to start setting goals and focus on their futures.”

Missouri’s Fourth District 2012 winners included Bronze Medal recipients Cody Barbour of Lohman and Sanjay Roberts of Jefferson City (part of MO-4 during 2012), who both volunteered 850 service hours and 50 Personal Development and Physical Fitness hours through AmeriCorps. Caleb Visser of Fort Leonard Wood is an Eagle Scout who earned a Gold Certificate for his 60 hours of voluntary service that included teaching at his local elementary school and his assistance with the Missouri Special Olympics.

“It’s a pleasure to recognize young people who are going above and beyond in America today,” added Hartzler. “I’m so pleased with the three student recipients from my district in 2012. These young men have demonstrated great initiative, public service, and achievement. I look forward to seeing more District 4 youth participate in the program in 2013 and receive the special recognition they deserve.”

The Congressional Award was established by Congress in 1979 and is the only official medal program for America’s youth. It is an ongoing program with no registration deadline. The program is open to all and accommodates young people with special needs or disabilities who are willing to take the challenge.

A former junior and senior high public school teacher, Congresswoman Hartzler now serves on the House Armed Services Committee, Agriculture Committee, and Budget Committee. She and her family reside on a working farm in Cass County.